Zac Gidney and Laura Gidney

ESCANABA — More than 40 outdoor gear vendors are expected to be on hand for the Trappers Convention/Outdoor Expo on July 11-12 at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern time both days. Admission is $10 for both days and children ages 12 and under are free.

Camping is available, and food and refreshments will be for sale on the grounds.

Live demonstrations will be presented during the two days. The presenters include Don Nyman, Les Johnson, Jeff Hagerty, Laura and Zac Gidney, Jeff Dunlap, Dave Radandt, Paul Antczak and Jim Churchill.

The Gidneys are a mother and son trapping team from New York. Laura Gidney is the treasurer for Fur Takers of America and a master trapping instructor for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Zac Gidney is a junior trapping instructor for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

In 2023, their land season total on canines was 244 with 117 raccoons, 22 bobcats, and 33 skunks.

Johnson takes the stage at 10 a.m. Eastern time Saturday, July 12. Johnson, of Nevada, is an accomplished trapper, archery hunter, outfitter/guide and marksman. He has won countless coyote calling awards.

“I have seen Les’s demos before, and his predator calling is so realistic we all think coyotes will start coming right into the demo building,” said Jeremy Lundin, secretary/treasurer of Upper Peninsula Trappers District Three.

For “last minute” vendor space or questions, contact Mary Theoret at 906-241-6155 or mltheoret@gmail.com. For detailed information on the convention, go to www.uptrappers.com.